The City of Seattle’s annual digital equity grant application process is set to open Monday, February 13, 2023. This year, $545,000 is available for Technology Matching Fund (TMF) grants. A minimum of $90,000 will be allocated to digital navigator projects. The grant application cycle will be open for non-profits and community groups to apply through April 17.
TMF grants will range between $25,000 to $45,000 depending on the projects. Projects will have to be completed within one year or less.
Project proposals should aim to increase internet access and adoption through:
- In-kind match: Materials or supplies such as computers, furniture, software, or paper; additional cost of utilities for the space for the project; or staff time dedicated to the project, but not paid for by the TMF dollars.
- Volunteer match: Volunteer labor valued at $50 per hour. Volunteer hours may be counted starting on the application due date. Professional services valued at the “reasonable and customary rate” up to a maximum of $100 per hour. Application preparation expenses up to $500.
- Cash match: Money you have collected and approved for use on your project. Money you will raise during your project by fundraising grants received from other foundations for your project.
Interested applicants can participate in Information Sessions hosted by Digital Equity Program staff. The meetings will be held online and are open to all. Applicants can expect to learn more about the process and ask questions at this time. Links for the virtual meetings will be shared as the dates get closer but mark your calendars for the date that works best for you.
- Monday, February 27, 12-1 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- Friday, April 7, 10-11 a.m.
Applications will be accepted through the City’s FLUXX portal, www.seattle.fluxx.io. Create an account to submit an optional Preliminary Application due March 13 or a Final Application due April 17. You may request a one-on-one session to review your preliminary application. If you would like to schedule a meeting, have questions about the application, or need technical assistance, please email communitytechnology@seattle.gov. You can also reach out via phone call or text 206-379-0469 to reach a Digital Equity Program staff member.
To learn about last year’s Digital Equity Grant winners, read our Tech Talk blog on their projects.
You can learn more about Digital Equity grants by visiting our website. To stay up to date for these grant opportunities and other Seattle Information Technology news, sign up for our newsletter.